One of AUA's strengths is the expertise of its members, who represent the many and diverse areas of higher education and share a commitment to developing professionalism in the sector. The Association's network of over 200 branches keeps it closely in touch with members' views.

AUA is committed to raising the profile of the profession and developing best practice and the highest standards of professionalism in higher education management and administration. AUA's code of professional standards, endorsed by the Association of Heads of University Administration (AHUA) and a growing number of institutions, provides the framework of core values and principles to underpin the profession of university administration.

Professional development

AUA is an established provider of professional development opportunities for university managers and administrators in the higher education sector. Our aim is to help members to identify their own professional development needs. We also provide opportunities to meet these needs through our information services, events and conferences and, for those who prefer, a recognised qualification – the Postgraduate Certificate.

AUA's annual programme of seminars, workshops and conferences is endorsed by the Higher Education Staff Development Agency (HESDA). The Annual Conference is the largest professional development conference in the HE calendar, with around 150 sessions and keynote presentations.

The AUA Postgraduate Certificate in Professional Practice is a portfolio-based scheme validated by the Open University. Achievement of the Award demonstrates a knowledge of key areas within the HE sector, transferable skills and evidence of the 'professional journey' undertaken.

International connections

AUA has strong links with organisations and individuals worldwide and works closely with the British Council and Association of Commonwealth Universities. Members can apply for travel awards to undertake study visits or exchanges.

Working groups

AUA has a number of established special interest groups which meet together to organise events or discuss key issues and exchange best practice, including the Corporate Planning Forum and the Equality Advisory Group.

Publications and information services

Members receive free of charge the AUA's quarterly journal, perspectives; quarterly newsletter, newslink; and each new title in the Good Practice Guide series.

AUA's online services include a number of email discussion groups: aua-news, for electronic bulletins including weekly press digest and fortnightly professional development bulletin; and aua-forum, email list for sharing information and best practice. We also have jiscmail lists to aid communication within sub-groups of the organisation (e.g. aua-bc, aua-pgcert) and for special interest groups (e.g. aua-deptadmin)..